African Spinach (Soko) - RANDR CONNECT LIMITED

What it is:

African Spinach, locally known as “Soko” (in Yoruba), is a leafy green vegetable widely consumed across West Africa. It is part of the Amaranthaceae family and is cherished for its high nutritional value, tender leaves, and rapid growth cycle. African spinach is rich in iron, calcium, protein, and essential vitamins.

What export of it is:

Exporting African Spinach involves harvesting, sorting, packaging, and shipping the leaves in either fresh, dried, or frozen form to international markets such as the UK, USA, Canada, and Europe, where African diasporas and health-conscious consumers seek authentic African vegetables.

Forms Available for Export

Fresh Soko Leaves – Properly washed and refrigerated before export.
Frozen Soko Leaves – Blanched and sealed to maintain freshness and nutritional value.
Dried Soko Leaves – Sun-dried or machine-dried for long shelf life and ease of transport.

Packaging

Fresh: Packed in perforated food-grade polythene bags or ventilated cartons.
Frozen: Vacuum sealed in moisture-resistant plastic bags.
Dried: Sealed in laminated pouches or foil bags to prevent moisture absorption.

Each package must be labeled with:

Product name
Net weight
Country of origin
Packaging/expiry date
Storage instructions

Export Form

Requires pre-cooling (for fresh/frozen)
Export-ready after NAFDAC, phytosanitary, and health certification
Shipped via air cargo (for fresh/frozen) or sea freight (for dried)

Target Market & Uses

African, Caribbean, and Asian groceries abroad
Restaurants and food processors
Commonly used in:
- Soups and stews (e.g., efo riro)
- Herbal mixtures
- Health diets (due to high iron and protein content)

HS Code

0709.99.0000 – Fresh or chilled vegetables (others, including African spinach)
0712.90.9090 – Dried vegetables, whole, cut, sliced, broken or in powder (others)